Correct Lifting Techniques, taught by The Centre of Osteopathy & Sports Medicine, based in Greenwich, South East London, offer osteopathy, paediatric osteopathy, shockwave therapy, deep tissue massage, sports massage, taping, cupping massage, medical acupuncture and rehab exercises; near Deptford, Canada Water, Rotherhithe, Camberwell, Lee, New Cross, Nunhead, Peckham, Lewisham, Blackheath, Kidbroke, Eltham, Charlton, Woolwich, Greenwich Peninsula, Noth Greenwich, Canary Wharf, Poplar and Isle of Dogs.
Adequate Lifting Technique

Lower back injuries can be incredibly painful and can seriously impact your quality of life. However, many people aren't aware that these types of injuries can often be prevented by using the proper lifting techniques. By taking some simple precautions, you can reduce your risk of injury and keep your back healthy.

Here are some helpful tips for using proper lifting techniques:

1. Get the right footing: When you're preparing to lift, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. This will give you a solid base and help you maintain your balance as you lift. Additionally, stand as close to the object as possible, and avoid reaching forward to grab it. Finally, if the object is located on a raised surface, use a stable stool or stepladder to bring it to a more manageable height.
2. Bend your knees: One of the most common mistakes people make when lifting is bending at the waist. This can put a tremendous amount of pressure on your lower back and increase the risk of injury. Instead, bend your knees and keep your back as straight as possible. This will engage your legs and reduce the strain on your back.
3. Tighten your core: Another way to protect your lower back when lifting is to engage your core muscles. This includes your abdominal muscles, which help to stabilize your spine. Tighten your core before you lift, and keep it engaged throughout the entire lifting process.
4. Lift with your legs: As you begin to lift the object, use your legs to do the heavy lifting. This means pushing up with your legs, rather than relying on your back muscles to lift the weight. Keep the object as close to your body as possible and avoid twisting or jerking movements.
5. Take frequent breaks: If you need to lift heavy objects for an extended period of time, be sure to take frequent breaks to give your back a rest. Additionally, if you feel any pain or discomfort, stop lifting immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.

By following these basic lifting techniques, you can greatly reduce your risk of lower back injuries. Remember to always be mindful of your posture and body mechanics and take the time to properly prepare yourself before lifting any objects. With these simple precautions, you can keep your back healthy and pain-free for years to come.